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Dispersed cogeneration: partnerships for utilities and industrials

Conference · · Energy Technol. (Wash., D.C.); (United States)
OSTI ID:5403824

The evolution of Arkansas Power and Light's interest in cogeneration began with the PURPA act of 1978. None of the PURPA incentives were available to a facility more than 50% owned by an electric utility. Yet AP and L still found steam users it surveyed reluctant to invest in cogeneration because of finite capital, the committment of management, technical, and operational staffs needed, and, in spite of PURPA, fear of regulation. A strategy emerged: AP and L could build, own, and operate cogeneration, supply users, and remove the four above constraints. A centralized operation would also cut down on the pollution that results from dispersed operation. Medium BTU gas from coal can provide the ideal fuel for cogeneration. Yet the capital required for coal gasification is such that only major utilities acting as promoter/developer can develop it. As electric utilities are not provided equal ownership opportunity in this market now, PURPA restrictions must be amended.

Research Organization:
Arkansas Power and Light Co., Arkansas
OSTI ID:
5403824
Report Number(s):
CONF-820217-
Journal Information:
Energy Technol. (Wash., D.C.); (United States), Journal Name: Energy Technol. (Wash., D.C.); (United States) Vol. 9; ISSN ENTED
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English